Insights On Effective Communication

Communication is central to human relationships. However, our communication skills have evolved so much so that we often take it for granted unless we are faced with people who cannot communicate with us due to physical or other types of disability. I came from a mostly oral tradition. Therefore, we value the ability to effectively communicate with peers, adults, and elders. Great communicators are respected whether they are adults or children and often given the privilege to transmit our cultures and beliefs.
 

One competent communicator I knew was my grandfather. He was excellent in human relationships. He had the knack of making each one of us special. In fact, each one of us used to think he or she was his favorite. He would face you, hold your hand, and definitely look you in the eyes with a relentlessly honest smile. And he would listen and listen and listen. One could not but feel his desire to connect. Just writing about it makes my heart warm with Joy. When he would talk to you nothing else mattered at the moment. You had his undivided attention. He made you feel special. Even in group settings, you would feel like you were the only one he was talking to. He would tell us stories before bed and he always left me wondering hours after the story ended. He could capture my attention, imagination like no one else could. He was a great communicator indeed.
 

I have learned from my grandfather the fact listening and connecting with people is crucial in conversation. Likewise, that you have to be present in order to effectively communicate. In my profession, I make it a point listen to children, staff, and families. I try as much as I can, to give my undivided attention. I want to make people feel valued and respected when I talk to them because as the great Maya Angelou once said “People will forget what you said but will always remember how you made them feel”. Communication that is based on respect and openness is crucial in early childhood settings as it enables the development of trusting relationships with the children, families, and staff.